Successful in the English test: strategies for local test subjects

Von WOM

Preparation for English tests can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to the different types of question that are used in the exams. Regardless of whether you prepare for a test such as IELTS, PTE, CAE or TOEFL IBT, it is important to understand the structure and requirements of the questions to maximize your chances of success.

A crucial element is the knowledge of the different question types. They range from multiple choice questions to questions in which gaps have to be filled in in the text. These questions can be slightly confusing, so it is helpful to find out about it in advance.

question type

In the following you will find an overview of the most common question types in the reading and listening understanding tests:

ieltts
pte cae toefl ibt
  • Multiple Choice
  • yes/no/not given
    • fill
  • gaps
  • lettering
  • assign
  • short response
  • Multiple Choice
    • fill
  • gaps
  • Raunge heels
  • summary
  • Missing or incorrect words mark
  • Writing from dictation
  • Multiple Choice
    • fill
  • gaps
  • word and sentence conversion
    • Complete
  • text
  • sentence complete
  • assign
  • make notes
  • summarize
  • Multiple Choice
  • sentence complete
  • insert text
  • sentences or information sorted
  • summary
    • Create
  • notes
  • categorize

The most common question types with which participants are confronted are multiple choice, yes/no/not given and gap fillers. These questions often require a thorough understanding of the content as well as listening and reading to find the right answers.

multiple-choice questions

Multiple choice questions are designed in such a way that you check various skills, including understanding main ideas and specific details in reading or listening texts. Many learn to learn easier because there is a selection of options, which can reduce the confusion. Nevertheless, these questions can be tricky, especially if the options contain a lot of similar or contain confusing formulations.

To answer these questions successfully, the following steps should be followed:

  1. Read the question and the options carefully and mark the keywords.
  2. When you find the relevant section, delete the obviously wrong options.
  3. Select from the remaining options that you consider to be the most correct.
  4. In the end, check all the answers where you were unsure.

    5. An additional tip: If you are unsure about an answer, you can install a strategy, but you should be careful with the PTE, since wrong answers can cost points.

    It is also important that words like "always", "never", and "often" have to be incredibly absolute statements that are often wrong. Pay attention to opposites in the answer options; As a rule, one of them will be correct.

    If you have any questions with yes/no/not given, it is crucial to understand that they usually have to be answered from the text with or without additional knowledge. These questions check their ability to draw logical conclusions and analyze details.

    The best way to prepare for your English test is regular practice and familiarize yourself with the different question types. In the case of further research or more detailed information on test strategies, it is advisable to complete the full instructions on www.s.com.au . Good luck with your English test!